Be Not Weary
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Be Not Weary
Be Not Weary
INTRO:
"And Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun " ().
Old Picture
I) INTRO:
A) This week the youth are on their mission trip and I was thinking that this audience will be an older group and maybe I ought to tailor my message a little for an older audience. I thought to myself what I feel since I’m getting older and the words Weary, worn, tired, bushed, fatigued and exhausted came to mind.
The inevitable movement of life (we grow older) The burden must be shared by the old and young alike All of us need God's helping hand in life's wilderness
Tired 1 Picture
B) Granite not all of the older generation feel that, but some of do, as do some of the younger generation.
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Exercising Picture
What Is in Your Hand?
What Is in Your Hand?
C) What seems to wear us out?
Tired 2 Picture
TEXT: Exodus 17:8-16
While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them. Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.”
So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.
After the victory, the Lord instructed Moses, “Write this down on a scroll as a permanent reminder, and read it aloud to Joshua: I will erase the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” Moses built an altar there and named it Yahweh-nissi (which means “the Lord is my banner”). He said, “They have raised their fist against the Lord’s throne, so now the Lord will be at war with Amalek generation after generation.”
SOME KEY VERSES
SOME KEY VERSES
A) KEY VERSE:
A) KEY VERSE:
"The Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod" ().
As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good.
God was calling Moses to be the great emancipator of Israel from the Egyptian bondage. Moses was very reluctant to be the leader of Israel and offered many excuses. To counter some of the excuses God asked Moses, "What is that in thine hand?" There are some good present-day lessons in this heart-searching question.
, ESV)
So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
C) “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (, ESV)
FIRST—THE APPEAL
FIRST—THE APPEAL
Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.
, ESV)
"The Lord said... What is in thine hand?" When God calls you to service, he wants all of you and will use all of you. The appeal to Moses was twofold.
D) “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” (, ESV)
WE’RE IN A HOLY WAR
WE’RE IN A HOLY WAR
• The appeal to surrender. "What is that in thine hand?" God wants all of us. Will you give to God everything. He may ask what is in your billfold as well as what is in your hand. God wants it and if we are to serve Him, we must give it all to Him.
III) HOLY WAR
III) HOLY WAR
A) Israel had sung their first song,
• The appeal to submission. "What is that in thine hand?" God not only wants your possessions, but he also wants your will. The appeal here also involved Moses' submission to the commands of God. Submission to God is obedience to God.
B) Gathered their first Manna,
SECOND—THE APPRAISAL
SECOND—THE APPRAISAL
C) Drunk the first time from that stream that flowed out of the rock.
"A rod." That was the answer that Moses gave to God. The rod was a simple shepherd's crook, nothing more.
D) Now they pass on to meet their first enemy and fight their first battle.
• The appraisal of depravity. "A rod." Moses saw nothing special in the rod to serve the Lord. We may not seem to have much special ability that God can use. We may be short on talent and other things. And to us all that we have may seem useless, worthless, vain and disqualifying. But that is only the appraisal of sinful man.
All who cheat with dishonest weights and measures are detestable to the Lord your God. “Never forget what the Amalekites did to you as you came from Egypt. They attacked you when you were exhausted and weary, and they struck down those who were straggling behind. They had no fear of God.
• The appraisal of Deity. God used Moses' rod to do great things. In fact, the rod became known as "the rod of God" (; ). It was prominent in a miracles of a snake (; ), in opening the Red Sea (); in bringing water from a rock (, ); and in the victory over the Amalekites (). We may appraise the rod as nothing special but yielded to God it can become great and powerful. The lad with a few fish and buns saw this happen. Our biggest problem is not having enough, but lack of surrender and submission.
If, like the children of Israel, we have been delivered from bondage and separated unto God, we may also expect to be attacked by the enemy while we are weary, tired and exhausted.
) If, like the children of Israel, we have been delivered from bondage and separated unto God, we may also expect to be attacked by the enemy while we are weary, tired and exhausted.
1) If, like the children of Israel, we have been delivered from bondage and separated unto God, we may also expect to be attacked by the enemy while we are weary, tired and exhausted.
1) If, like the children of Israel, we have been delivered from bondage and separated unto God, we may also expect to be attacked by the enemy while we are weary, tired and exhausted.
1) If, like the children of Israel, we have been delivered from bondage and separated unto God, we may also expect to be attacked by the enemy while we are weary, tired and exhausted.
“If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A slave is not greater than the master.’ Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you. They will do all this to you because of me, for they have rejected the one who sent me.
THIRD—THE ADMONITION
THIRD—THE ADMONITION
A LOOK AT OUR FOE
A LOOK AT OUR FOE
"What is that in thine hand?" This question can be asked in an admonitory way, too. Do you have something in your hand that you should not have? Do you have a magazine or book in your hand that is unholy? Do you have in your hand a can or glass of some hellish drink? Do you have your hand the hand of a man or woman whose hand you should not be holding? We need to empty our hands of all evil things which can defile us and dishonor God. "Who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands ..." (, )
(KJV) 18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. 20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them.
IV) LOOK AT OUR FOE — Vs. 8 “Amalek”
IV) LOOK AT OUR FOE — Vs. 8 “Amalek”
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Amalek, or, the Christian’s Antagonist.
Our Battle with the Flesh
Our Battle with the Flesh
A) Amalek, or, the Christian’s Antagonist.
Who was Amalek?
Amalek has not a very honourable pedigree.
8 Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.
He is the offspring of Esau, the brother of Jacob
9 And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.
who sold his birthright for a mess of pottage, "being carnal," and so is a type of the flesh. Amalek, like that which is carnal, was the first of the nations, but, like the flesh, he is doomed to perish
(NLT2) 20 Then Balaam looked over toward the people of Amalek and delivered this message: “Amalek was the greatest of nations, but its destiny is destruction!”
10 So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.
Then Balaam looked over toward the people of Amalek and delivered this message: “Amalek was the greatest of nations, but its destiny is destruction!”
Amalek a type of the flesh" That which is born of the flesh is flesh"
Amalek a type of the flesh" That which is born of the flesh is flesh"
(Amalek a type of the flesh" That which is born of the flesh is flesh"
11 And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.
Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.
12 But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took astone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.
What a lesson God gives to us concerning our battle with the flesh, our old carnal nature. We can learn a lesson from this story on how to gain victory over the old man, our carnal nature!
13 And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
(01) For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
01) For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
2) What a lesson God gives to us concerning our battle with the flesh, our old carnal nature. We can learn a lesson from this story on how to gain victory over the old man, our carnal nature!
2) What a lesson God gives to us concerning our battle with the flesh, our old carnal nature. We can learn a lesson from this story on how to gain victory over the old man, our carnal nature!
14 And the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.
15 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi:
When do the Amalek’s show up?
He did not annoy them till they got to Rephidim (resting places),
16 For he said, Because the Lord hath sworn that the Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.
In the New Testament the apostle Paul made this event a type of Christ:
Introduction:
I don’t want you to forget, dear brothers and sisters, about our ancestors in the wilderness long ago. All of them were guided by a cloud that moved ahead of them, and all of them walked through the sea on dry ground. In the cloud and in the sea, all of them were baptized as followers of Moses. All of them ate the same spiritual food, and all of them drank the same spiritual water. For they drank from the spiritual rock that traveled with them, and that rock was Christ.
(b) Actually, on two separate occasions during the Exodus march, water supernaturally gushed forth from a rock.
-
Israel had sung their first song,
(b) Actually, on two separate occasions during the Exodus march, water supernaturally gushed forth from a rock.
(i) The first occurred here at Rephidim, at which time Moses obeyed God.
Gathered their first Manna,
(c) The second would occur some 40 years later just northeast of Kadesh, at which time Moses disobeyed God (). Willmington's Complete Guide to Bible
Drunk the first time from that stream that flowed out of the rock.
Now they pass on to meet their first enemy and fight their first battle.
(2) The Christless know nothing about the conflict between flesh and spirit, the world loves its own. The onslaught took place while Israel was resting. The unguarded moments of inactivity are fit opportunities for the Amalek lusts of the flesh.
Those without Christ know nothing about the conflict between flesh and spirit, the world loves its own. The onslaught took place while Israel was resting. The unguarded moments of inactivity are the opportunities for the Amalek’s of life to inflict the lusts of the
2) The Christless know nothing about the conflict between flesh and spirit, the world loves its own. The onslaught took place while Israel was resting. The unguarded moments of inactivity are fit opportunities for the Amalek lusts of the flesh.
What a lesson God gives to us concerning our battle with the flesh, our old carnal nature. Let us learn a lesson from this story on how to gain victory over the old man, our carnal nature!
This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies has declared: I have decided to settle accounts with the nation of Amalek for opposing Israel when they came from Egypt.
Let Us Observe The Truths Given To Us In This Story.
(a) Thus saith the Lord of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt.
He is waiting to find your weakness in the flesh. Then he will attack.
(i) He is waiting to find your weakness in the flesh. Then he will attack.
I. LOOK AT OUR FOE — Vs. 8 “Amalek”
LOOK AT OUR FEEBLENESS
LOOK AT OUR FEEBLENESS
Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.
Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.” So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset.
Amalek was the Grand son of Esau, Who pictures our Carnal Nature.
This is the first that Joshua is mentioned
1) This is the first that Joshua is mentioned
This is the first that Joshua is mentioned
This is the first that Joshua is mentioned
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
(a) Taken from Handfuls on Purpose - Vol. 1-3.
(i) Joshua, or the Fight of Faith.
1. Amalek was Cunning — Lays in Wait
(01) The lusts which war against the soul are overcome through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.
Thus saith the Lord of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt.
(ii) The Means of Faith. "Joshua chose out men" (v. 9).
He is waiting to find your weakness in the flesh. Then he will attack.
(ii) The Means of Faith. "Joshua chose out men" (v. 9).
2. Amalek Was Cowardly
(01) Faith must have something to work by—faith which worketh by love.
,
ð The believers' chosen ones are the Blood, the Spirit, and the Word.
17 Remember what Amalek did unto thee by the way, when ye were come forth out of Egypt;
ð These are the Christian's "three mighties." Put on the whole armour of God, take the shield of faith.
18 How he met thee by the way, and smote the hindmost of thee, even all that were feeble behind thee, when thou wast faint and weary; and he feared not God.
(02) The Work of Faith. "Joshua went out and fought".
Note his attack — On the Feeble, The Faint, The Weary, And the Hindermost.
ð "Fight the good fight of faith" (). "
Remember that Amalek is laying in wait for you to foul up, and get in the hindermost position. Then he will stage his attack. The flesh is a coward.
ð I will show thee my faith by my works" ().
The Power for our feebleness is Revealed
The Power for our feebleness is Revealed
Amalek smote those that were faint and feeble and could neither make resistance nor escape. Be careful that you do not get in the hindermost position.
(a) In Raised Hands, and the Rod of God.
II. LOOK AT OUR FEEBLENESS
(i) The first prayer of Moses for Israel
Vs. 9-12
(01) Moses, or the Spirit of Prayer. Every "over-comer" constantly maintains a twofold attitude, the upward and the outward.
9 And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.
ð Towards God. There is the steady, uplifted hands of unwavering faith (). It is the upward look of the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man. This holy privilege and power is within the reach of all, who, like Moses, stands on the hill-top of communion with God.
10 So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.
ð Toward the Enemy. There must be fearless and unyielding determination. While the hands were uplifted Joshua prevailed. The source of overcoming power is in God. It is communicated to and through those who are in living sympathetic touch with Him.
11 And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.
But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!
). "When I cry unto Thee, then shalt mine enemies turn back" ().
).
My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help. This I know: God is on my side!
(ii) The Raised Hands
12 But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
The Raised Hands
The Raised Hands
The Power for our feebleness is Revealed
(01) Shows an awareness of Our Need for the Power of the Holy Spirit
Shows an awareness of Our Need for the Power of the Holy Spirit
Shows an awareness of Our Need for the Power of the Holy Spirit
Throughout the Psalms it instructs us to lift our hands as sign of our need for Him and His Spirit
In Raised Hands, and the Rod of God.
Listen to my prayer for mercy as I cry out to you for help, as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary.
1. The Raised Hands
(NLT2) 2 Listen to my prayer for mercy as I cry out to you for help, as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary.
I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
· (NLT2) 4 I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
Shows a Consciousness of Our Need
Shows A Clean Life — Lift up holy hands.
Shows A Clean Life
Shows A Clean Life
Shows A Clean Life — Lift up holy hands.
(02) Shows A Clean Life — Lift up holy hands.
Lift up holy hands.
In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy.
2. The Rod Of God
(NLT2) 8 In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy.
(b) And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.
Signifies God’s Power.
(b) And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.
(i) Let us raise our hands to the one who gives the victory
This power was revealed in Egypt, at the Red Sea, At the Rock, and now in battle.
The Rod of God
The Rod of God
We need God’s power in all walks of life.
(i) (NLT2) 2 Then the LORD asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied.
Then the Lord asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied.
(NLT2) 2 Then the LORD asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied.
III. LOOK AT OUR FRIENDS — Vs. 12
(01) Is God asking you what’s in your hand?
But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
Is God asking you what’s in your hand?
Two, the number of confirmation, Aaron & Hur
God was calling Moses to be the great liberator of Israel from the Egyptian bondage. Moses was very reluctant to be the leader of Israel and offered many excuses. To counter some of the excuses God asked Moses, "What is that in thine hand?"
Gives command
1.“Aaron” The High Priest — Type Of Christ
Throw it on the ground
Serpent
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
Back to a rod, but never the same
Our great high priest in heaven is making
God used Moses' rod to do great things. In fact, the rod became known as "the rod of God"
So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and headed back to the land of Egypt. In his hand he carried the staff of God.
Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.”
Exodus
Exodus
The Rod Of God was prominent in a miracles
The Rod Of God was prominent in a miracles
(i) It was prominent in a miracles
intercession for us. He Is Our Strength!
So Moses lifted his staff toward the sky, and the Lord sent thunder and hail, and lightning flashed toward the earth. The Lord sent a tremendous hailstorm against all the land of Egypt. Never in all the history of Egypt had there been a storm like that, with such devastating hail and continuous lightning. It left all of Egypt in ruins. The hail struck down everything in the open field—people, animals, and plants alike. Even the trees were destroyed. The only place without hail was the region of Goshen, where the people of Israel lived.
2. “Hur” The Holy Spirit — Type Of The Spirit — Name Means “Freeborn”
(NLT2) 23 So Moses lifted his staff toward the sky, and the LORD sent thunder and hail, and lightning flashed toward the earth. The LORD sent a tremendous hailstorm against all the land of Egypt. 24 Never in all the history of Egypt had there been a storm like that, with such devastating hail and continuous lightning. 25 It left all of Egypt in ruins. The hail struck down everything in the open field—people, animals, and plants alike. Even the trees were destroyed. 26 The only place without hail was the region of Goshen, where the people of Israel lived.
So Moses raised his staff over Egypt, and the Lord caused an east wind to blow over the land all that day and through the night. When morning arrived, the east wind had brought the locusts. And the locusts swarmed over the whole land of Egypt, settling in dense swarms from one end of the country to the other. It was the worst locust plague in Egyptian history, and there has never been another one like it. For the locusts covered the whole country and darkened the land. They devoured every plant in the fields and all the fruit on the trees that had survived the hailstorm. Not a single leaf was left on the trees and plants throughout the land of Egypt.
(NLT2) 13 So Moses raised his staff over Egypt, and the LORD caused an east wind to blow over the land all that day and through the night. When morning arrived, the east wind had brought the locusts. 14 And the locusts swarmed over the whole land of Egypt, settling in dense swarms from one end of the country to the other. It was the worst locust plague in Egyptian history, and there has never been another one like it. 15 For the locusts covered the whole country and darkened the land. They devoured every plant in the fields and all the fruit on the trees that had survived the hailstorm. Not a single leaf was left on the trees and plants throughout the land of Egypt.
(02) (NLT2) 13 So Moses raised his staff over Egypt, and the LORD caused an east wind to blow over the land all that day and through the night. When morning arrived, the east wind had brought the locusts. 14 And the locusts swarmed over the whole land of Egypt, settling in dense swarms from one end of the country to the other. It was the worst locust plague in Egyptian history, and there has never been another one like it. 15 For the locusts covered the whole country and darkened the land. They devoured every plant in the fields and all the fruit on the trees that had survived the hailstorm. Not a single leaf was left on the trees and plants throughout the land of Egypt.
In opening the Red Sea
In opening the Red Sea
(ii) in opening the Red Sea
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground.
The Holy Spirit is Interceding for us.
Prior to the ambush of Amalek in bringing water from a rock
Prior to the ambush of Amalek in bringing water from a rock
The Lord said to Moses, “Walk out in front of the people. Take your staff, the one you used when you struck the water of the Nile, and call some of the elders of Israel to join you. I will stand before you on the rock at Mount Sinai. Strike the rock, and water will come gushing out. Then the people will be able to drink.” So Moses struck the rock as he was told, and water gushed out as the elders looked on.
IV. LOOK AT OUR FORCE
iii) Prior to the ambush Amalek in bringing water from a rock (, );
(iii) Prior to the ambush Amalek in bringing water from a rock (, );
, );
And in the victory over the Amalekites
And in the victory over the Amalekites
While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them. Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.” So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.
Vs. 13
(iv) And in the victory over the Amalekites ().
).
As Moses we see nothing special in what’s in our hands to serve the Lord.
And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
(01) As Moses we see nothing special in what’s in our hands to serve the Lord.
We may not seem to have much special ability that God can use. We may see ourselves as be short on talent and other things.
“The Sword” pictures, “The word Of God”
And to us all that we have may seem useless, worthless, vain and disqualifying. But that is only the appraisal of sinful man.
1. A Mirror To Show Us — The Real You.
What we really are and what we need.
We may appraise the rod as nothing special but yielded to God it can become great and powerful.
The lad with a few fish and loaves saw this happen.
2. A Mold To Shape Us — To Look Like Jesus.
Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.
Some people shape their lives and then look at the word to see if they fit. They twist the word to fit their lives.
Our biggest problem is not having enough, but lack of surrender and submission.
We are to allow the word to shape our lives, and then our lives will be pleasing to God.
· Our biggest problem is not having enough, but lack of surrender and submission.
Our biggest problem is not having talent, but lack of surrender and submission.
As Israel was under attack and they needed someone to stand in the gap for them. Moses answered the challenge and touched Heaven for them that day. Because he did, victory was the result.
V. LOOK AT OUR FLAG — Vs. 15
And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi:
God's people need someone who will touch Heaven for them in these days!
(a) God's people need someone who will touch Heaven for them in these days!
Means “The Lord is my banner”. Or Flag.
What a comfort it is to know that people are praying for me as I go about my life day by day!
We read in the New Testament where the Apostle Paul was constantly asking for the prayers of others,
God’s Banner Reveals
1. The Presence Of God — He Is With Us.
(01) If he needed the prayers of God's people, then how much more do we need them?
If he needed the prayers of God's people, then how much more do we need them?
He will never leave nor forsake us. He is Emmanuel, God with us.
We can also read where the saints are commanded to pray one for another,
(c) We can also read where the saints are commanded to pray one for another, ; .
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
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I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. And I have been chosen as a preacher and apostle to teach the Gentiles this message about faith and truth. I’m not exaggerating—just telling the truth. In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy.
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We need to pray for one another!
(i) We need to pray for one another!
2. The Power Of God — He is fighting through us.
Are you touching Heaven for the saints of God?
In Egypt He fought for us, now He fights through us.
VI. LOOK AT OUR FUTURE BATTLES
We need to pray for the leaders of the church; the preachers; the Elders; the Sunday School teachers; all those who serve in any capacity need our prayers.
(02) We need to pray for the leaders of the church; the preachers; the Elders; the Sunday School teachers; all those who serve in any capacity need our prayers.
Vs. 16
There is nothing in this world like knowing that God's people are praying for you!
During World War II a Marine was serving in the South Pacific. His platoon was under fire and they were trying to signal their comrades that they had taken a certain hill. Their sergeant issued an order for a man to take the American flag and raise it up on a pole to let other units know they had taken this ground. As he grabbed the flag and ran off to raise it up, he was shot by a sniper. Another man was sent to retrieve the flag and raise it up. He too was shot. Finally, a young private spoke up and said, “Sergeant, in just a few minutes it will be four o'clock. If you will let me wait until then, I will take that flag, I will raise it up on that pole.” The sergeant thought for a moment and said, “All right son.” At four o'clock, that private jumped out of his foxhole, ran over and picked up the flag, and then he ran to that pole and raised it up. He then turned and ran back to his foxhole and jumped in without so much as a scratch.
For he said, Because the Lord hath sworn that the Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.
The men cheered and the sergeant asked him why he wanted to wait until four o'clock to do what he did. The private replied, “Well sir, its four o'clock here, but it's 6 AM back home in Kansas. My mother loves Jesus and she told me that every morning at 6 AM she would be on her knees praying for my safety. I knew that I would be safe while mama touched Heaven for me.”
War With Amalek From Generation To Generation.
Are we praying for the lost, or do we get weary, and exhausted?
A never ceasing Battle.
1. No Rest Of Our Faith
A certain Scottish man who had lived a very worldly life was going over the records left by his father, a very wealthy man who had just passed away. He noticed that his father had given large sums of money to an orphanage operated by George Mueller. He decided that his father might want him to continue to give to that work so he decided to pay them a visit one day. It just so happened that when he got there, there was revival meeting going on for the boys and girls in the home. He sat there and listened to the sermon and was convicted of his sins. He came to Jesus that day and was saved.
Daily Fight Against the flesh. We must keep on trusting Him.
When he stood to give testimony of his conversion, the workers in that home were not surprised. They said, “For 38 years George Mueller did not cease to pray for you every day.” - Don't give up!)
2. No Reasoning With The Flesh
Are you touching Heaven for lost souls?
J. Sidlow Baxter once said, “Men may spurn our appeals, reject our message, oppose our argument, but they are helpless against our prayers!”. How true that is! They may curse you; slam their doors in your face; turn a deaf ear to your witness; etc. But, they cannot oppose your prayers as they ascend to your Father's throne!
Give no place to the flesh
We Must Fight To Keep It Under Control
Maze Jackson told of preaching in a certain meeting and of using as his text. 19 “I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. He said that after the service a little boy met him at the door and asked him if he really believed that verses. Brother Maze said “I sure do!” Well, that little boy proceeded to tell him that his dad had abandoned him and his mother for a life of drink and women. He said that he had not seen nor heard from his daddy since he had left. He told the preacher that he wanted to see his daddy saved more than anything in the world. He asked Brother Maze to covenant with him and claim that verse to see his daddy saved. But, he wanted to claim that verse and believe that God would save his daddy before the meeting ended on Friday night.
Brother Maze said he was ashamed to admit to the little boy that he had his doubts, but he agreed to agree with the little boy that his daddy would come to Jesus. Well, Brother Maze said that every night, while he preached that little boy sat on the front row and say, “!” He would come by at the back door and say, “ preacher! My daddy is going to be saved!” Brother Maze said the whole thing made him nervous and he was afraid that little boy was going to be very disappointed.
Brother Maze said he was ashamed to admit to the little boy that he had his doubts, but he agreed to agree with the little boy that his daddy would come to Jesus. Well, Brother Maze said that every night, while he preached that little boy sat on the front row and say, “!” He would come by at the back door and say, “ preacher! My daddy is going to be saved!” Brother Maze said the whole thing made him nervous and he was afraid that little boy was going to be very disappointed.
(iv) Well, Friday evening came and there had been no sign of the boy's daddy. As Brother Maze preached that night, the little boy waved his Bible in the air and kept saying “” over and over. Then, as the service was ending and they were about to be dismissed, a man entered the door at the back of the church. That little boy looked around and said, “That's my daddy!” That man came down that aisle, took his estranged wife by the hand, came by a grabbed that little boy and fell in that altar, repented of his sins and gave his life to Jesus! Don't ever give up!)
25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Well, Friday evening came and there had been no sign of the boy's daddy. As Brother Maze preached that night, the little boy waved his Bible in the air and kept saying “” over and over. Then, as the service was ending and they were about to be dismissed, a man entered the door at the back of the church. That little boy looked around and said, “That's my daddy!” That man came down that aisle, took his estranged wife by the hand, came by a grabbed that little boy and fell in that altar, repented of his sins and gave his life to Jesus! Don't ever give up!)
LOOK AT OUR FRIENDS
LOOK AT OUR FRIENDS
26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not a one that beateth the air:
While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them.
So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.
Exodus 17But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
Two, the number of confirmation, Aaron & Hur
Two, the number of confirmation, Aaron & Hur
1) Two, the number of confirmation, Aaron & Hur
We must recognize, the flesh is our enemy and Keep it under subjection. Israel was to never to make any league with the Amalekites, likewise we are never to give place with the flesh.
aron & Hur
Two, the number of confirmation, Aaron & Hur
“Aaron” The High Priest — Type Of Christ
“Aaron” The High Priest — Type Of Christ
The flesh is our enemy.
(a) .“Aaron” The High Priest — Type Of Christ
Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
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Our great high priest in heaven is making intercession for us. He Is Our Strength!
(ii) Our great high priest in heaven is making intercession for us. He Is Our Strength!
CLVII.—The Hands of Moses Held Up
CLVII.—The Hands of Moses Held Up
"And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he laid down his hand, Amalek prevailed," &c.—, .
“Hur” — Type Of The Holy Spirit — Name Means “Freeborn”
“Hur” — Type Of The Holy Spirit — Name Means “Freeborn”
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.
God was pleased to employ various means, under an inferior dispensation, for the punishment of the wicked.
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
The Holy Spirit is Interceding for us.
The Holy Spirit is Interceding for us.
(01) The Holy Spirit is Interceding for us.
In some cases he sent famine—in others, fire from heaven—in others, pestilence; and in others, war.
People Like Hur Are Absolutely Invaluable
The Amalekites, as a wicked nation, had filled up the cup of their iniquity. They now exhibited their hatred to God's people, by making war against them; ver. 8. Moses adopted means for the defence of the Israelites; ver. 9. Our subject exhibits the moral power which he employed on the occasion. Observe, in the moral use of this event,
I. The cause of God is opposed by bitter and violent enemies.
A) People Like Hur Are Absolutely Invaluable (v. 12)
A) People Like Hur Are Absolutely Invaluable (v. 12)
These enemies, in the case of the text, were the Amalekites; in our case they comprise,
1) In this story, Moses is unable to hold his hands up, and if they fall, then the Amalekites will certainly win the battle. However, Aaron and Hur step forth and hold the hands of Moses up until the battle is won.
1. The powers of darkness.
In the church, there are still found the Moses', the Aaron's and the Joshua's. These people get the credit, these who get seen, these who are seen doing the work of the ministry, but behind everyone of those people, there is an army of Hur's.
There are a number of people who are praying, fasting, and carrying the load so that those doing minsitry able to do their work.
Satan and his host. Enemies full of hate, and envy, and revenge. Fierce, restless, combined, powerful, and persevering. Numerous, as our poet says,
"They throng the air, and darken heaven, And crowd this lower world."
People who pray and seek the Lord's face and lift up the hands of those who are weary in the Lord's work are absolutely vital.
Even Jesus had some who held up His hands as He ministered, . If the aid of others helped the Lord, then how could anyone think that they could get by without it?)
Satan is the leader, the captain, who is described as a roaring lion, &c. We read of his wiles, and of his fiery darts.
2. The wicked of our world.
The church would be nothing if it weren't for people who spent time lifting others up in prayer. We preaching would be nobodies if it weren't for the Hur's who lift up the weary hands.
Every man is for or against God, and the truth. Hence, all infidels and deniers of the truth. All scoffers and profligates. All corrupters of the pure doctrines of the Gospel.
Dr. Alan Carr The Sermon Notebook - Front Matter. After the battle, can you imagine Joshua as he led the victorious Israelite army back into camp? I am sure there were congratulations all around, slaps on the back and shouts of “Way to go!”; “Good work, Joshua!” I can see the people as they received Moses back into the camp with shouts and expressions of gratitude. I can hear Aaron as he led the congregation in a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for giving them the victory. Then I can see a fellow named Hur as he walks wearily towards his tent to rest. No one pats him on the back, no one tells him that he did a good job. In fact, only a couple of people know what he did that day. To the people, he is invisible, but in his heart, he is overjoyed because he knows that what man does not, God does! While no one in camp is telling Hur that he did a great job that day, the Father in Heaven makes note of Hur's sacrifice and whispers, “Well done thou good and faithful servant!”
There are many in churches today who are just like Hur.
All formalists, who hate spiritual religion, &c.
They are invisible to the crowds.
The preachers, the teachers and the singers all get their pats on the back and hear the people say, “Well done!” People like Hur remain invisible.
Now, the spirit and influence of all these is against God, and his cause, and people. With these, therefore, we have to maintain a spiritual and continued conflict.
Observe,
II. The direct means by which our warfare must be conducted.
Moses, in this case, stood on the top of the hill, and lifted up the rod, &c.; ver. 9. See , .
1. Let us consider the rod of Moses, as typical of the word of divine truth.
Hence, Paul says, the gospel is the "power of God," &c. The rod of Moses was the symbol of authority and power. It had wrought, in his hand, many marvellous works. It is called the "Rod of God." .
Having smote the waters of the Nile, they became blood. It had been stretched over the waters of the Red Sea, when they, too, divided, &c. It had smitten the rock, and waters gushed forth, &c. God's word is one of majesty and power. It kills, or makes alive. How terrific its threatenings! How glorious its promises! How it slays the wicked, and saves the righteous!
Now, this is the only weapon to be employed in Christ's cause. He sent his apostles forth with this. Hence, the "weapons of our warfare are not carnal," etc. No sword—or statutes—or fines. No earthly power—no coercive means to make people good, etc.
Observe,
2. The spirit in which it is to be employed.
Moses, in the spirit of believing devotion, held up the rod, etc. Just so, must the word be preached. The full, pure word, in the spirit of prayer. The apostle says, "Take the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God," and then he adds directly, "praying always, with all prayer."
(1.) The word should be read in this spirit. Hence, David, "Open thou mine eyes that I may behold," etc.
(2.) Should be studied in a devotional spirit. That we may be preserved from error and confusion. That we may see the truth in all its fulness and harmony.
(3.) It must be preached in this spirit. Not expecting it should edify and save, on account of our style of composition, or mode of address, or order of arrangement; but on account of its inherent life and power, and the blessing of God. Prayer and the word must not be separated, etc. And believing prayer may be encouraged from,
(1.) Nature of the word. God's truth; and, therefore, adapted, etc.
(2.) From its numberless trophies. What has it not achieved!
(3.) From the promises of God concerning it. One shall suffice; , .
Notice,
III. The essential aid the Church of God may afford in the accomplishment of this warfare.
See ver. 12. "And Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands," etc.
(1.) Observe, this aid was necessary. Moses was not sufficient. His hands fell down, and then the enemy prevailed.
(2.) Observe, this aid was cheerfully afforded. No unwillingness. Their hearts were identified with Moses and his work.
(3.) This aid was efficient. "His hands were steady," etc.
Now, all Christians in the Church are culled to imitate Aaron and Hur.
(1.) Sunday-school teachers hold up the hands of the ministry, by rearing the young, and bringing them to the house of God, etc.
(2.) Tract distributers, etc.
(3.) The Temperance laborers, as John the Baptist, prepare the way for the gospel of the kingdom.
(4.) The liberal man, who deviseth liberal things, etc.
(5.) The active member, who exhorts and invites, etc.
(6.) The spiritually-minded, who exhibit the beauties of holiness—who are lovely and attractive, etc.
(7.) The fervent devotional believer, who holds up the ministry and cause always, before the throne of God, etc.
Learn,
1. The true position of the Church of God, in a state of conflict.
2. Our great encouragement.
God's presence and blessing. His great promises, etc. Observe,
3. Our individual duty.
Are we working for God, and souls, and eternity?
4. The enemies of God must perish, &c. The triumphs of truth and the Cross are certain; but still always in connection with the agency God has set up, and has promised to bless.
Cyclopedia of Sermons.
THE HOLY WAR.
THE HOLY WAR.
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If, like the children of Israel, we have been delivered from bondage and separated unto God, we may also expect to be attacked by the enemy (). The hindermost and weak and feeble ones are sure to suffer first (). Borderland Christians get much buffeting; beware of the lusts that lie in ambush (), the Diabolonians, as Bunyan calls the lusts that lodge in wall (flesh) of Man-soul. They are the sworn enemies of the Spirit of Christ. As an illustration of the Christian's spiritual conflict, let us notice—
I. Amalek, or, the Pilgrim's Foe. Well may we ask—
1. Who was He? Amalek has not a very honourable pedigree. He is the offspring of Esau, the brother of Jacob (closely connected), who sold his birthright for a mess of pottage, "being carnal," and so is a type of the flesh. Amalek, like that which is carnal, was the first of the nations, but, like the flesh, he is doomed to perish ()." That which is bora of the flesh is flesh" ().
2. When Came He? He did not annoy them till they got to Rephidim (resting places), and had drank of the smitten rock. "That Rock was Christ." The Christless know nothing about the conflict between flesh and spirit, the world loves its own. The onslaught took place while Israel was resting. The unguarded moments of inactivity are fit opportunities for the Amalek lusts of the flesh.
II. Joshua, or the Fight of Faith. The lusts which war against the soul are overcome through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ ().
1. The Means of Faith. "Joshua chose out men" (v. 9). Faith must have something to work by—faith which worketh by love. The believers' chosen ones are the Blood, the Spirit, and the Word. These are the Christian's "three mighties." Put on the whole armour of God, take the shield of faith.
2. The Work of Faith. "Joshua went out and fought" (v. 10). Hope waits, love submits, faith actively presses on, it is the aggressive grace that attacks and wins the fight. "Fight the good fight of faith" (). "I will show thee my faith by my works" ().
III. Moses, or the Spirit of Prayer. Every "over-comer" constantly maintains a twofold attitude, the upward and the outward.
1. Towards God. There is the steady, uplifted hands of unwavering faith (). It is the upward look of the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man. This holy privilege and power is within the reach of all, who, like Moses, stands on the hill-top of communion with God.
2. Toward the Enemy. There must be fearless and unyielding determination. While the hands were uplifted Joshua prevailed. The source of overcoming power is in God. It is communicated to and through those who are in living sympathetic touch with Him. "If ye abide in Me, and My word abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done" (). "When I cry unto Thee, then shalt mine enemies turn back" ().
IV. Aaron and Hur, or the Promises of God. How often the precious promises of God have acted the part of Aaron and Hur to our feeble intercessions.
1. The Promises are Strong. "They stayed up his hands" (v. 12). The supplicating hands of Moses soon grow weary. The time of definite prayer is a testing time. It is here we feel most intensely our utter weakness and the need of supporting promises. "Take with you words," the succouring, unfailing words of Him who cannot lie. Lean your arm of feeble prayer upon His sure Word of promise.
2. The Promises are Steady. "And his hands were steady" (v. 12). Unsteady hands will not receive much from the Lord (, ). The promises of God never tremble. We may have weary and shaky hands, but we have an unshaking God who fainteth not, neither is weary (, ). "He giveth power to the faint." "Uphold me with Thy free Spirit." Steady and sure wins the day. God's promise to Abraham wrought in him unstaggering faith. Keep steadily trusting and thy God will keep steadily conquering. "I will trust and not be afraid" ().
Handfuls on Purpose - – Handfuls on Purpose Vol. 1-3.
The Importance of Teamwork
The Importance of Teamwork
A sea captain and his chief engineer were arguing over who was most important to the ship. To prove their point to each other, they decided to swap places. The chief engineer ascended to the bridge, and the captain went to the engine room. Several hours later, the captain suddenly appeared on deck covered with oil and dirt. "Chief!" he yelled, waving aloft a monkey wrench. "You have to get down there: I can't make her go!" "Of course you can't," replied the chief. "She's aground!" On a team we don't excel each other; we depend on each other.
—Leadership, Vol. 12, no. 4.
Today's Best Illustrations - Today's Best Illustrations – Volumes 1-4.